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Press Release- Towards a more sustainable and efficient transport system in the EU

26.10.2012, 13:06 (CET)

A general approach for two legislative proposals of the Maritime Labour Convention Enforcement Package, substantial progress on the proposal for Regulation for the allocation of slots at EU airports and a political agreement on a new regulation in relation to recording equipment (tachographs) used in road transport. These are among the expected outcomes of the Transport, Telecommunications and Energy (TTE) Council, dedicated solely to transport issues, to be held in Luxembourg, on Monday, October 29.

On Monday, October 29, the Transport, Telecommunications and Energy (TTE) Council, dedicated to transport issues, will be chaired by the Cypriot Minister of Communications and Works Mr. Efthemios Flourentzou. The Council is expected to achieve progress on issues that contribute towards a more sustainable and efficient transport system for EU.

Shipping

During the Council, the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC 2006) Enforcement Package will be examined. The MLC, adopted by the International Labour Organisation in 2006, aims to provide comprehensive rights and protection at work for seafarers, while also securing fair competition for quality shipowners. It applies to international shipping and looks to promote a more socially responsible shipping industry. The Council is anticipated to reach a general approach, on two draft directives laying down the responsibilities of flag states, on the one hand, and port states, on the other, as part of the enforcement of the Convention.

Aviation

Concerning aviation issues, the Council will discuss the proposal for a Regulation on common rules for the allocation of slots at EU airports.. The general objective of this proposal is to ensure optimal allocation and use of slots in congested airports, thus enhancing fair competition and competitiveness of operators. Significant progress is anticipated on this issue during Monday’s deliberations, on the basis of compromise proposals submitted to the Council by the Cyprus Presidency.

Land transport

The Council will also examine the amendment of the existing legislative framework on recording equipment in road transport (tachographs). The proposed regulation aims to enhance the security and functionality of the system, reduce manipulations and fraud, as well as reducing the administrative burden for drivers and transport undertakings. A political agreement is expected on this issue.

In relation to land transport, an orientation debate will take place on the proposal for a Regulation on periodic roadworthiness tests for motor vehicles and their trailers. The proposal aims at contributing to reaching the target of halving the number of road fatalities by 2020 in the EU.

Furthermore, the Cyprus Presidency will inform the Council on the outcomes of the Informal Ministerial Meetings and other meetings that took place in Cyprus, through which the Presidency initiatives were promoted and implemented.